Summery Lemon White Chocolate Chip Cookies Inspired by New York City’s Levain Bakery

These Lemon White Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a refreshing twist on classic chocolate chip cookies. Infused with the zest and juice of fresh lemons and packed with creamy white chocolate chips, these cookies bring a delightful summery vibe to any occasion. The high baking temperature, a technique inspired by Levain Bakery in New York City, ensures a perfectly golden exterior while maintaining a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth interior.

Why You’ll Love This:
The zesty lemon flavor perfectly complements the richness of the white chocolate, making these cookies irresistibly unique and flavorful. The use of cold, cubed butter and the chilling process before baking helps create a thicker, more satisfying texture. Each bite is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a delectable chewiness that cookie lovers will adore.

Perfect Occasion:
These cookies are fantastic for summer picnics, family gatherings, or as a special treat during afternoon tea. They’re also a wonderful surprise for birthdays or any festive celebration where a light, refreshing dessert is desired.

Decoration Tips:
For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle the cookies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice after they cool. Alternatively, sprinkle them lightly with powdered sugar or garnish with thin lemon zest strips to enhance their visual appeal and lemon flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• Zest from 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups white chocolate chips (or lemon chips, if available)

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
   • In a stand mixer, beat the cold cubed butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
   • Add the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Add Chocolate Chips:
   • Fold in the white chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Chill the Dough:
   • Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
7. Prepare for Baking:
   • Preheat the oven to 420°F (215°C). Scoop the chilled dough into desired portions onto a baking sheet, adding extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
8. Baking:
   • Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
9. Cooling:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 30 minutes to set properly before transferring them to a wire rack.

Enjoy these delightful Lemon White Chocolate Chip Cookies, a perfect blend of citrusy freshness and sweet indulgence, ideal for bringing a slice of New York City’s famous bakery style to your home!